The Self-Defense Fleet conducted a change of command and a retirement ceremony

On December 23, the Self-Defense Fleet conducted a change of command and a retirement ceremony, with the Commander-in-Chief of the Self-Defense Fleet being replaced by VADM YUASA Hideki and then by VADM SAITO Akira.
At the change of command ceremony, VADM YUASA said “The Self-Defense Fleet, as the last stronghold to protect the peace and independence of Japan, must answer to the trust of the citizens, and I hope that Commander-in-Chief of the Self-Defense Fleet SAITO and all others will take on the challenge of creating an even more advanced Self-Defense Fleet.”
The 52nd Commander-in-Chief of the Self-Defense Fleet, VADM SAITO said “As the security environment surrounding Japan grows increasingly severe year by year, the “strength” and “readiness” that the traditional Self Defense Fleet has upheld are becoming increasingly important. To achieve the mission of the Self-Defense Forces to defend the peace and security of our nation, I would like to further promote joint operations and deepen Japan-U.S. bilateral Cooperation, and build an even more advanced Self-Defense Fleet together with all staff.”
In his retirement ceremony, VADM YUASA Hideki ended his 36 years and 9 months of service as a member of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
The Self-Defense Fleet maintains responsiveness, safeguards the peace and defense of Japan, continues to integrate with allied and friendly navies and contributes to the stability in the Indo-Pacific region in order to realize a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”